Welcome to our ultimate guide on making the most delicious Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or when you simply crave a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying meal. Packed with tender chicken, creamy cheese, and wrapped in flaky crescent rolls, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. Plus, we’ve got all the details on how to make keto and low-carb versions, so there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore every delicious detail.
Ingredients
For the Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls:
- 5 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1 10 oz can cream of chicken soup
- 1 soup can full of milk
- 1 package crescent rolls
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
- Cook the Chicken: Start by cooking the boneless chicken breasts. You can bake, grill, or poach them until they are fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Baking is a great option: preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), season the chicken with salt and pepper, place them on a baking sheet, and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, let the chicken cool slightly. Shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks or your hands.
Step 2: Mixing the Filling
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, grated mozzarella cheese, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed and creamy.
Step 3: Assembling the Crescent Rolls
- Prepare the Crescent Rolls: Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the crescent roll package instructions. Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles.
- Fill the Crescents: Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture onto each crescent roll triangle. Roll each crescent starting from the wide end towards the pointed end, ensuring the filling is enclosed inside.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the filled crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each roll.
Step 4: Baking the Rolls
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven according to the package instructions, typically for about 10-12 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Serving
- Serve Warm: Remove the cheesy chicken crescent rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
Cook’s Notes
- Seasoning: Feel free to add extra seasonings to the chicken mixture, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning, to enhance the flavor.
- Vegetables: You can add diced vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the filling for added nutrition and flavor.
- Make-Ahead: The chicken filling can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and bake the crescent rolls.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Variations
1. Cheesy Chicken and Bacon Crescent Rolls:
- Ingredients: Add 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon to the chicken mixture.
- Instructions: Follow the same steps as the original recipe, incorporating the bacon into the filling.
2. Spicy Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls:
- Ingredients: Add 1/4 cup chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
- Instructions: Follow the same steps as the original recipe, adding the jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.
3. BBQ Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls:
- Ingredients: Replace the cream of chicken soup with 1/2 cup BBQ sauce.
- Instructions: Follow the same steps as the original recipe, using BBQ sauce in place of the cream of chicken soup for a tangy twist.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls:
- Ingredients:
- 5 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 package keto-friendly crescent rolls (or use a fathead dough recipe)
- Instructions:
- Cook and Shred Chicken: Cook the chicken breasts as described above, then shred them.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, and heavy cream. Mix until creamy.
- Assemble Rolls: Follow the same steps to fill and roll the keto-friendly crescent dough.
- Bake: Bake according to the keto crescent roll package instructions or until golden brown.
Low-Carb Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls:
- Ingredients:
- 5 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 package low-carb crescent rolls
- Instructions:
- Cook and Shred Chicken: Cook the chicken breasts as described above, then shred them.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, Greek yogurt, and almond milk. Mix until creamy.
- Assemble Rolls: Follow the same steps to fill and roll the low-carb crescent dough.
- Bake: Bake according to the low-carb crescent roll package instructions or until golden brown.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with cheddar, Swiss, or a cheese blend for different flavors. Each type of cheese will give a unique taste and texture to the dish.
2. Can I use homemade cream of chicken soup?
Absolutely! Homemade cream of chicken soup will enhance the flavor and allow you to control the ingredients. To make your own, combine chicken broth, heavy cream, and a thickening agent like flour or cornstarch. Season to taste.
3. Can I freeze the unbaked crescent rolls?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Place the assembled rolls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When ready to bake, allow them to thaw slightly and bake as directed.
4. What can I serve with cheesy chicken crescent rolls?
They pair well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of soup for a complete meal. Consider serving with steamed broccoli, green beans, or a fresh garden salad.
5. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the rolls may lose some of their crispiness.
6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free crescent roll dough and ensure that all other ingredients, such as cream of chicken soup, are gluten-free.
7. Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms not only enhances the flavor but also adds nutritional value to the dish.
Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls are a versatile and delicious dish that can be customized to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or try one of the variations, you’re sure to enjoy this comforting meal. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and flaky crescent rolls makes it a winner every time.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any occasion where you need a simple yet satisfying dish. Plus, with the keto and low-carb options, everyone can enjoy this delightful meal. We hope you find this guide helpful and that you enjoy making (and eating) these Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls as much as we do.
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!
